I am not surprised to see Brooks head in the same direction that the fashion company Hermes Paris has. Hermes was started in 1837 as an equestrian leather saddle shop and quickly became a lifestyle label that specializes in high-end leather and clothing products.

From a business standpoint, I do not blame Brooks for their efforts, and wish them the success. This means that, when you buy a Brooks saddle, you're no longer paying for just the functionality of the saddle but also for the lifestyle it represents.